The DPO training school led by DPOs

The DPO Centre Academy Programme is a 9-month earn-as-you-learn professional DPO training course. A unique blend of theory and practice with all the essential tools you will need for a successful career as a Data Protection Officer.  

You will gain hands-on privacy experience and develop your skills whilst being employed on a fixed-term contract. 

The curriculum has been meticulously designed to provide the most comprehensive education in data protection and privacy. Soft skills training is also included, covering important DPO competencies such as communication, meeting etiquette, and time management.  

Core elements

• 6-month online module learning
• 3-month trainee shadowing period
• Mentorship from experienced DPOs
• Collaborative learning with cohort and industry experts
• IAPP industry recognised CIPP/E and CIPM qualifications

The structured programme includes an extensive range of academic and practical activities, delivered through a blended approach of online learning, in-person workshops, and group work. 

• E-learning modules with assessments 
• Face-to-face workshop sessions with experienced DPOs 
• Virtual support from academic tutor 
• Peer support and interaction through forums and groups 

E-learning

The online course is structured into modules, with content divided into weekly topics. To foster a collaborative learning environment, each module is supported by a virtual learning environment (VLE) and student forums.

You will have access to online reading lists, student groups, and resources. Tutors are also available for one-to-one support through video call or email.

The DPO Centre Academy Programme has been carefully designed by The DPO Centre team, with a rigorous curriculum covering the fundamentals of data protection, operational life cycles and beyond. 

Soft skills, including teamwork, client communication, problem solving, and time management are developed throughout the course as part of the co-operative learning environment and group projects.  

The modular learning approach, combined with ongoing assessments, allows trainees to develop the breadth of knowledge needed for success in a DPO role.  

To instil learning and help evaluate progress, there are both formative and summative assessments throughout The DPO Centre Academy Programme. At the end of the six-month learning period, trainees sit the final exams.

All assessments must be completed within the course deadlines. Failure to submit work or achieve the required pass mark may result in a Programme placement being revoked.

Following successful completion of the course curriculum and academic exams, trainees begin the 3-month shadowing period.  

The DPO Centre Academy seeks to provide the most comprehensive vocational training programme for a career as a Data Protection Officer, with the additional opportunity for successful trainees to join The DPO Centre’s  #ONETEAM. 

Organisations across all industry sectors are facing the challenge of keeping up with ever-evolving data protection legislation. The DPO Centre Academy Programme provides the depth of knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in a commercial environment.

The DPO Centre sets high standards and our #ONETEAM philosophy, which is a fundamental element of our success, sets us apart from our competitors. We know what it takes to be an outstanding DPO.

We are looking for committed individuals with the necessary drive to succeed. 

• Organised, with the ability to manage and prioritise tasks from multiple sources
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail
• Well presented, with a professional attitude

You will be computer literate, with demonstrable experience of organising, prioritising, and planning. You must enjoy working as an integral member of our team, but also capable of managing your own workload to deliver high quality assignments that meet expectations and deadlines.

Primarily, The DPO Centre is a customer-driven service business. We operate a relaxed and sociable environment, whilst being committed to delivering the highest standard of client care. We seek proactive, motivated and confident team players, who are passionate about what they do.

We succeed because we are #ONETEAM

The ideal applicant 

• Honours law degree (minimum 2:2), or equivalent experience in an organisation with a link to a DPO type of role (e.g. Compliance Management, Information Governance etc.)
• Can communicate fluently in both written and spoken English
• Ability to travel to Leicester on a twice-monthly basis for Inset Days, and also attend occasional company events 
• Passionate about data protection 

English speakers 

Before being considered for the programme, applicants must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In most cases, previous academic qualifications (which should prove at least two years’ recent study at a UK/English speaking institution) will be sufficient.

If applicants are unable to supply suitable evidence, they will have the opportunity to take the IELTS test to prove capability. Students will need an IELTS score of at least 7.0 overall, with a score of at least 6.5 in each part. This will need to be funded by the student.

Please note: We cannot accept applications from individuals on a student visa as we are not a licenced student sponsor.  

Career progression

After successful completion of The DPO Centre Academy programme, there is an opportunity for selected trainee DPOs to become junior members of The DPO Centre #ONE TEAM

A career with The DPO Centre

• Work with a prestigious portfolio of clients
• Opportunity to develop sector specific expertise
• Be part of a remarkable team that delivers the extraordinary